When a driveway needs replacing
Thin hairline cracks are normal in concrete and are usually only cosmetic. A driveway is due for replacement when cracks keep widening, sections have sunk or lifted into trip hazards, or the surface is crumbling and breaking apart. Often the real problem is underneath: a base that has settled or washed out, which no surface patch can fix.
How we replace a cracked driveway
- Free consultation. We look at the driveway with you, talk about what caused the damage and explain the whole process to remove and reinstall it.
- Removal. The old concrete is broken up and taken out.
- A new base. The ground is graded and a compacted gravel base is built up, with slope to carry rainwater away from the house.
- Forms and reinforcement. Forms set the new driveway’s edges and height, and reinforcement goes in where it is needed.
- Pour, finish and cure. The new concrete is poured, finished and given time to cure before cars go back on it.
What causes driveways to crack?
Most driveway failures start below the surface. A thin or poorly compacted base settles unevenly, rainwater runs under the slab and softens the soil, tree roots push up from below, and heavy trucks stress the edges. Freezing nights add to the damage once water gets into a crack. A replacement is the chance to fix the cause, not just the cracks.
Upgrade the look while you are at it
A new driveway does not have to look like the old one. You can choose a different finish, like stamped or exposed aggregate concrete. See our concrete driveways page for the options, or call (425) 230-3189.
From a customer
“Nothing is more frustrating than wasting time hunting down companies to do work for you. That is why I wish I could give Bothell Concrete 10 stars - they are timely and have excellent follow-through. My expectations were met after they thoroughly explained the whole process to remove & reinstall a cracked driveway.”